The Ministry of Minerals and Energy has reaffirmed Botswana’s commitment to advancing sustainable energy solutions following a courtesy meeting between Minister Bogolo Kenewendo and senior representatives from the World Bank. The Minister recently received outgoing World Bank Country Representative for Botswana Mr Liang Wang and incoming Country Manager Ms Madalo Minofu during a meeting focused on the continued cooperation between Botswana and the international financial institution. The engagement marked an important leadership transition within the World Bank’s Botswana office while also recognising years of collaboration in strengthening the country’s energy sector. Mr Wang’s visit served as his final farewell to the Minister, while Ms Minofu’s participation introduced her as the new leader responsible for supporting the World Bank’s partnership with Botswana. The meeting highlighted the importance of sustained cooperation in advancing energy reforms, investment and sustainable development priorities.
During the farewell visit, Mr Wang expressed his appreciation for the leadership shown by Minister Kenewendo in advancing Botswana’s energy sector. He acknowledged the Ministry’s efforts in working with the World Bank to strengthen the structure and development of the sector over several years. One of the key milestones highlighted was the partnership on the Energy Compact, which represents cooperation aimed at supporting improvements in Botswana’s energy landscape. Mr Wang also thanked the Ministry for the strong working relationship that developed during his time as Country Representative. His remarks reflected the importance of collaboration between government institutions and development partners in addressing complex energy challenges.
The meeting also provided an opportunity to officially welcome Ms Madalo Minofu, who assumed her role as World Bank Country Manager for Botswana on 1 July 2026. Ms Minofu expressed her enthusiasm about joining the team and working with Botswana’s government and stakeholders. She reaffirmed the World Bank’s commitment to supporting the country in addressing key energy sector priorities and advancing its sustainable development agenda. Her appointment comes at a time when Botswana is focusing on expanding renewable energy, improving energy efficiency and creating a stronger investment environment. The continuation of the partnership signals a shared commitment to supporting long-term energy transformation.
Minister Kenewendo commended Mr Wang for his service and recognised the contribution he made during his tenure in Botswana. She highlighted the strong and productive relationship built between the Ministry of Minerals and Energy and the World Bank over the years. The Minister expressed appreciation for his support and commitment to advancing initiatives that contribute to Botswana’s development goals. She described his departure as the end of a period marked by meaningful cooperation and positive contributions to the country’s energy sector. Her remarks reflected the value Botswana places on partnerships that help strengthen national development efforts.
“It has been an absolute pleasure working with you. You leave after making a tremendous mark in Botswana,” Minister Kenewendo said while acknowledging Mr Wang’s contribution. The statement reflected the Ministry’s appreciation for the role he played in supporting energy sector initiatives and strengthening cooperation between Botswana and the World Bank. Strong relationships between government and development institutions are important in creating effective solutions to challenges such as energy security, infrastructure development and investment mobilisation. Mr Wang’s tenure included collaboration on projects and frameworks aimed at improving the country’s energy sector foundation. His farewell visit therefore represented both a moment of appreciation and recognition of shared achievements.
Botswana’s energy sector remains a key priority as the country works towards a more reliable, sustainable and diversified energy system. The government has been focusing on renewable energy investment, improved energy efficiency and stronger partnerships with private sector and international organisations. Collaboration with institutions such as the World Bank provides access to technical expertise, financing support and global knowledge that can assist with implementing energy reforms. Continued cooperation can help Botswana address challenges related to energy supply, infrastructure development and market expansion. The transition between World Bank representatives provides an opportunity to build on existing progress while exploring new areas of collaboration.
Ms Minofu’s arrival comes as Botswana continues efforts to position the energy sector as a driver of economic growth and sustainability. Her commitment to working with Botswana reflects the importance of maintaining strong relationships between national institutions and international partners. Effective partnerships can support the development of policies, programmes and investments that improve access to reliable energy. They can also contribute to creating opportunities for businesses, communities and investors within the energy sector. The World Bank’s continued involvement demonstrates confidence in Botswana’s development plans and the potential for further progress.
The engagement between Minister Kenewendo, Mr Wang and Ms Minofu also highlighted the importance of leadership continuity in development partnerships. Changes in leadership within international organisations can create opportunities to review priorities, strengthen cooperation and introduce new perspectives. Maintaining institutional relationships ensures that ongoing projects and commitments continue to receive attention and support. Botswana’s approach of welcoming new partners while recognising previous contributions demonstrates the value placed on long-term cooperation. This continuity will be important as the country continues implementing strategies aimed at transforming its energy sector.
The Ministry of Minerals and Energy has reiterated Botswana’s commitment to working with international and cross-sector partners to advance sustainable energy solutions. These partnerships are essential as the country seeks to balance economic growth with environmental responsibility and energy security. Cooperation between government, development organisations, investors and other stakeholders can help accelerate progress towards a modern energy system. The World Bank remains an important partner in supporting Botswana’s development priorities, particularly in areas requiring technical expertise and investment. The relationship between the two institutions provides a foundation for continued collaboration in the years ahead.
The farewell of Mr Liang Wang and the introduction of Ms Madalo Minofu mark a significant moment in Botswana’s ongoing relationship with the World Bank. Mr Wang leaves behind a legacy of cooperation and support for initiatives aimed at strengthening the energy sector, while Ms Minofu begins her role with a commitment to continuing this partnership. Minister Kenewendo’s engagement with both representatives demonstrates Botswana’s focus on maintaining strong international relationships that support national priorities. As the country advances its sustainable energy agenda, collaboration with development partners will remain essential. The continued partnership between Botswana and the World Bank is expected to contribute to further progress in building a resilient, efficient and sustainable energy sector.
